Welcome to Minneapolis, a city known for its vibrant arts and culture scene, stunning natural beauty, and friendly Midwestern charm. Whether you're a resident of the city or planning a visit, there's no shortage of things to see and do in Minneapolis. This city has something for everyone, from exploring world-class museums and theaters to enjoying the great outdoors.
In this article, we'll share the top 10 things to do in Minneapolis. Whether you're interested in history, art, nature, or entertainment, you'll find plenty of options on this list. We'll be exploring iconic landmarks like the Mall of America and the Walker Art Center and hidden gems like the Midtown Global Market and the Minneapolis Riverfront.
1. Visit the Chain of Lakes
The Chain of Lakes is a beautiful, interconnected system of five lakes in Minneapolis's heart. Each lake offers its own unique set of activities, from swimming and boating to hiking and picnicking. The Chain of Lakes is a popular destination for residents and visitors and is often cited as one of the city's top attractions. Lake Calhoun, the largest of the five lakes, is a particularly popular destination for water sports enthusiasts, with kayaking, paddle boarding, and windsurfing among the activities available. Lake Harriet, another popular lake in the chain, is home to the famous Bandshell, which hosts free concerts and events throughout the summer.
Address: Minneapolis, MN 55419, USA
2. Explore the Minneapolis Institute of Art
The Minneapolis Institute of Art is one of the largest art museums in the country, boasting an extensive collection of over 89,000 works from around the world. The museum's collection spans over 5,000 years of human history and includes everything from ancient Egyptian artifacts to contemporary works by living artists. Highlights of the museum's collection include works by famous artists such as Vincent van Gogh, Claude Monet, and Rembrandt and an impressive collection of Asian art and artifacts. The museum also hosts a variety of exhibitions and events throughout the year, making it a must-see destination for art lovers.
Address: 2400 3rd Ave S, Minneapolis, MN 55404, United States
Official website: https://new.artsmia.org/
3. Check out the Walker Art Center
The Walker Art Center is a world-renowned contemporary art museum in Minneapolis's heart. The museum's collection includes works by some of the most influential artists of the 20th and 21st centuries, including Andy Warhol, Jasper Johns, and Roy Lichtenstein. In addition to its impressive collection, the Walker Art Center hosts various events and exhibitions throughout the year, including film screenings, live performances, and artist talks. The museum's stunning architecture and beautiful setting make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in modern and contemporary art.
Address: 725 Vineland Pl, Minneapolis, MN 55403, United States
Official website: https://walkerart.org/
4. Take a stroll down the Stone Arch Bridge
The Stone Arch Bridge is a historic landmark that spans the Mississippi River in downtown Minneapolis. The bridge offers stunning views of the river and the city skyline and is a popular destination for walkers, joggers, and cyclists. Originally built in 1883 to carry railroad traffic, the Stone Arch Bridge is now a pedestrian and bicycle bridge that offers a unique perspective on the city. In addition to its stunning views, the bridge is home to several events throughout the year, including the Stone Arch Festival of the Arts and the Minneapolis Aquatennial.
Address: 100 Portland Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55401, United States
Official website:https://www.minneapolisparks.org/parks__destinations/historical_sites/stone_arch_bridge/
5. Visit the Mill City Museum
The Mill City Museum tells the story of Minneapolis's history as the "flour milling capital of the world." The museum is located in the ruins of an old flour mill on the banks of the Mississippi River and features exhibits that explore the history of the flour milling industry, as well as the city's history more broadly. Highlights of the museum's collection include a working 19th-century flour mill, a hands-on lab where visitors can learn about the science of milling, and a rooftop observation deck with stunning views of the city. The Mill City Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Minneapolis's industrial history.
Address: 704 S 2nd St, Minneapolis, MN 55401, United States
Official website: https://www.mnhs.org/millcity
6. Go shopping at the Mall of America
The Mall of America is one of the largest malls in the country, boasting over 500 stores and a wide range of dining and entertainment options. The mall is a popular destination for visitors from around the world and offers something for everyone, from high-end luxury brands to budget-friendly retailers. In addition to its shopping options, the Mall of America also features several attractions, including an amusement park, an aquarium, and a miniature golf course. The mall is also home to several events throughout the year, including concerts, fashion shows, and holiday celebrations.
Address: 60 E Broadway, Bloomington, MN 55425, United States
Official website: https://mallofamerica.com/
7. Take a walk through the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden
The Minneapolis Sculpture Garden is a stunning outdoor art space next to the Walker Art Center. The garden features over 40 sculptures by artists worldwide, including the iconic Spoonbridge and Cherry sculpture by Claes Oldenburg and Coosje van Bruggen. In addition to its impressive collection of sculptures, the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden also features several walking paths and gardens that offer a peaceful retreat from the city. The garden is a must-visit destination for art lovers and anyone looking to enjoy a peaceful afternoon outdoors.
Address: 725 Vineland Pl, Minneapolis, MN 55403, United States
Official website: https://www.walkerart.org/garden/
8. Explore the Minneapolis Riverfront
The Minneapolis Riverfront is a stunning 11-mile stretch of parkland along the Mississippi River. The area offers a variety of activities, including hiking, biking, and picnicking, as well as several cultural and historical landmarks. Highlights of the Minneapolis Riverfront include the historic Stone Arch Bridge, the scenic St. Anthony Falls, and the Mill Ruins Park, which features the ruins of several old flour mills. The riverfront is a great destination for anyone looking to enjoy the city's natural beauty and learn about its history.
Address: East and West banks of the Mississippi River between & 35W bridges, Ave N, Minneapolis, MN 55401, United States
Official website:https://www.minneapolisparks.org/parks__destinations/parks__lakes/central_mississippi_riverfront_regional_park/
9. Visit the Como Park Zoo and Conservatory
Explore the Historic Masonry is a must-do activity for anyone interested in architecture and history. Minneapolis has a rich history, which can be seen in its stunning historic masonry buildings. The city's downtown area is home to several beautiful buildings that date back to the late 1800s and early 1900s, including the Foshay Tower and the Pillsbury A-Mill. Many of these buildings have been beautifully restored and repurposed, with some now housing trendy restaurants, boutique shops, and luxury apartments. If you're looking to explore the historic masonry buildings of Minneapolis, you may also be interested in hiring a professional masonry contractor to help with any restoration or renovation needs. One of the best options in the city is MMC (Minneapolis Masonry Contractors), a company with years of experience in the industry. They specialize in a variety of masonry services.
Address: 1225 Estabrook Dr, St Paul, MN 55103, United States
Official website: http://www.comozooconservatory.org/
10. Explore the Historic Masonry
Explore the Historic Masonry is a must-do activity for anyone interested in architecture and history. Minneapolis has a rich history, which can be seen in its stunning historic masonry buildings. The city's downtown area is home to several beautiful buildings that date back to the late 1800s and early 1900s, including the Foshay Tower and the Pillsbury A-Mill. Many of these buildings have been beautifully restored and repurposed, with some now housing trendy restaurants, boutique shops, and luxury apartments. If you're looking to explore the historic masonry buildings of Minneapolis, you may also be interested in hiring a professional masonry contractor to help with any restoration or renovation needs. One of the best options in the city is MMC (Minneapolis Masonry Contractors), a company with years of experience in the industry.
Official website: https://minneapolismasonrycontractors.com/
Contact no: 612-778-3798
Minneapolis is a city that offers visitors an incredible mix of natural beauty, culture, and history. Whether you're a local or a tourist, there are plenty of things to do in this vibrant city. From exploring the iconic Mall of America to strolling through the historic masonry buildings downtown, there's something for everyone. You can also enjoy the stunning outdoor spaces, including the Chain of Lakes and the Minneapolis Riverfront, or visit world-class museums like the Walker Art Center and the Minneapolis Institute of Art. With so much to see and do, Minneapolis is truly a city that should be on every traveler's list.
